Trauma Therapy and EMDR
for Feelings of Insecurity and Low Self Worth

Feelings of insecurity and low self-worth are incredibly common in our society. These feelings can impact nearly every area of life, often leading to symptoms of depression and anxiety. Interestingly, many people who experience chronic low self-worth also have past traumatic experiences that may contribute to these feelings, whether due to rejection, criticism, neglect, or unmet emotional needs. These formative experiences can shape our self-image, often making us feel unworthy or “not good enough.”

Common Signs of Low Self-Worth

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Low self-worth can show up in subtle ways that impact relationships, self-perception, and emotional well-being. Some common indicators include:​

• Sensitivity to rejection: Often feeling deeply hurt or upset by perceived or real rejection from others.

• A pervasive sense of inadequacy: Frequently feeling like you’re “not good enough” or that you fall short in some fundamental way.

• Difficulty accepting positive feedback: When others offer praise or compliments, you may struggle to believe it or dismiss it as untrue.

• Jealousy, judgment, and criticism of others: You may find yourself comparing yourself to others and feeling envious, often leading to harsh judgments of yourself and others.

• Struggling to be authentic in relationships: You may hold back from expressing your true self, fearing rejection or disapproval.

• Belief that the “real” you is unlikable: Feeling that if others saw who you truly are, they wouldn’t like you or might reject youThe

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The Role of Trauma in Low Self-Worth

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Low self-worth is often rooted in past traumatic experiences, where we might have learned to doubt our value or hide our true selves. Trauma isn’t limited to extreme events; it can also come from repeated, subtle instances of neglect, emotional unavailability, or critical comments from loved ones. This can include experiences where our feelings were dismissed, where we were made to feel small, or where we didn’t receive the emotional validation we needed.

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For many, when these experiences and repeated and prolonged, it can lead to an internalized belief that they are fundamentally flawed, unworthy, or “not good enough.” This sense of self can follow us into adulthood, impacting our confidence, relationships, and mental health.

Therapy for Building Self-Worth

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Addressing low self-worth involves identifying and healing the root causes. Trauma-focused therapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), can help uncover and process these past experiences, allowing you to develop a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself.

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If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, know that you’re not alone, and that therapy can offer meaningful support in rebuilding self-worth. 

How We Can Help